Aspire Lounge Terminal 1

"Let down by the staff. I was travelling with my mother who requires wheelchair assistance but I decided to take on that responsibility myself. We went up to the lounge and was initially greeted by a staff member cleaning the glass door. Had a complete blank expression when I mentioned that we were travelling by a particular airline and asked whether this was this the correct lounge ( I was told different airlines have different lounges). The reception desk was behind the door and the lady said she would have to check. Eventually squeezing through the door and after confirming that we were travelling Business Class, we were “let in”. I then looked for the quietest spot out of the way and sat down and parked the wheelchair next to our seats. Due to personal reasons we not able to sample the food. But the worst thing was when a female member of staff decided, without warning push the wheelchair right into the corner where we were already in and at one point pushing it over my foot. Saying I have other passengers that need the seats next to us!! Most of the place was empty and she decided that it had to be right next to us. I didn’t have a problem with that whatsoever but it was the lack of common courtesy and politness. Staff training required at the very least. The lounge itself is tidy and clean. However, my experience was somewhat disappointing. Just hope it doesn’t happen to anyone else."

"What a mixed experience. Check in was absolutely flawless with a fantastic welcome, short waiting time and pleasant discussion of the issues of the day. Less happily, the experience in-lounge was much less encouraging. The fabric of the lounge is a little tired - not the end of the world except things such as plug sockets are loose and would not pass even a basic safety inspection. The food choices are very limited, though still better than some French lounges. The service at the bar was haphazard and slow. The staff are quite disinterested and seem to actively hide from lounge customers. It’s a shame to see such unhappy people working here and you have to wonder about the workplace culture. I was especially unhappy to see a staff member helping himself to some cheese from the buffet using his fingers when tongs were easily available. This is unhygienic and unprofessional. I don’t blame him personally, I blame his training and management and question whether this lounge business is really fit for purpose. What a shame. They have the prime location in T1 and this could be so much better. The Escape Lounge, located across the corridor, has no windows but in my opinion, they have a more positive and professional team making for a much more pleasant experience."

"This seems to be quite pleasant, it is not busy at the moment though (10:24 am on a weekday). It is clean and the staff are very helpful. The food is adequate and the area clean and tidy. No healthy cereal choices that I could see. Good view over the tarmac and the wifi is fine."

"Business class lounges should be up to standard. Unfortunately this lacked cleanliness, service, and overall comfort. It was packed with people and lacked a variety of food. On a more positive note, the view of the airport was nice and they had beer!"